Manchester United defender Smalling says: ‘Time to step up’ against Man City

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has urged his side to ‘step up’ in the clash against rivals Manchester City this weekend.

United suffered a disappointing exit from Europe following a 3-1 aggregate loss in the Europa League Round of 16 against Liverpool on Thursday and the Red Devils could potentially be ruled out in the race for a finish in the top four of the Premier League as well if they suffer a defeat against crosstown rivals City this weekend.

Smalling believes that real consistency has been a problem for United in recent times and has now urged his side to step up their game when they square off against City on Sunday.

The England international told MUTV: “We’re going to want to make sure we go into that international break on a high and the only way we can close the gap on the top four is by beating somebody who’s already in there.

“It’s our time to step up.

“There’s still a lot to play for. We need to show that consistency in our performances and, if we can build on that first half, we give ourselves a chance in the league and in the FA Cup.”